Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is the nation's most populous area, with around ten per cent of the country's population living in the hub of neon and activity.

Often mistaken for a city, the 'metropolis' with a population of around 12 million people, is one of 47 prefectures or sub-areas in Japan.

Within the area itself there are of course, mazes of neon jungles, skyscrapers and crowded bustling subways, but there is also an unknown wilderness of villages, lakes, rivers, dams, farms, remote islands and national parks.

Tokyo lies in the Kanto region on the island of Honshu and is Japan's centre of politics, business, finance, education, mass media and hyperactive pop culture.

The current generation of Japanese have a child-like quality which is unique. Their style of cartoons and comic books are a phenomenon and it is not unusual to see fully grown women with pig tails, dressed from head to toe in Miss Kitty (a cartoon kitten) branded apparel.

Tokyo has the highest concentration of universities and colleges, museums, theatres, and shopping and entertainment establishments in the country and has a highly developed public transport system which is handy for tourists.

There are so many different things to see and do that a short journey to Tokyo is not an option. Three of the most popular attractions are the Imperial Palace, which is also the former site of Edo Castle, the Meiji Shrine and Sensoji Temple.

The imperial palace is the home of the Emperor of Japan and his family, the Sensoji is an ancient Buddhist temple and the Meiji Shrine is a tribute to Emperor Meigi and his wife.

But for those tourists looking for the stereotypical modern Tokyo they will find it in Shinjuku. There you will find some of the areas most impressive skyscrapers, neon lights, computer and camera stores and hotels.

Moving on to Marunouchi the streets will become awash with men and women in suits making their way to work at one of the many banks, trading companies, or other major businesses.

Those keen for shopping would be smart to look towards the area of Ginza and Yurakucho. Here there are major shopping and entertainment areas with department stores, upscale shops and movie theatres. For shopping with a view, head out to Odaiba, a large reclaimed waterfront area that has become a 'hot spot' for shopping and entertainment.

The Japanese are a spiritual people who are disciplined and courteous to their elders, but there a number of festivals where they let themselves 'break free' so to speak. In spring tourists can participate in the Sunrise festival, black night festival, walking-on sand ritual, and open-air torchlight Noh performance.

In summer the Sumida fireworks in Asakusa are a sight to be seen, as are the Tokyo Bay fireworks and Jingu Firework shows.

For those wanting to sample some of the authentic delights of Japan there are often Grand Sumo tournaments in January, May, and September at the Ryogoku Kokugikan and the Tsukiji fish market shows where the sushi bars get their fresh catches.

Tokyo also has its own Eiffel Tower of sorts with the Tokyo Tower in Minato-ku standing at 333 meters tall (nine metres taller than the Eiffel). The tower is the largest self-supporting iron tower in the world and is the tallest structure in Tokyo.

Even families are not disappointed with a trip here as Tokyo Disney Resort takes in around one million visitors per day. There are also national parks, hot springs and some of the most unique modern architecture you'll ever lay your eyes on.

A trip to Tokyo means, fun, culture, technology, shopping and the time of your life, but don't blink or you just might miss the world go by.